Although storm water runoff is simply rainwater, it flows over land and can become a problem. When it picks up and carries sediment and contaminants from streets, rooftops and lawns, it carries them to surface water bodies and ground water through the soil causing contamination.

Storm water is a problem if it mixes with pollutants like fertilizer, oil, sediment, pet waste, soap, pesticides and other chemicals that are picked up by runoff then carried untreated to local water bodies. It is important to realize that all storm water entering a storm sewer system receives no treatment before re-entering the water cycle.

At Luke Air Force Base, most of the storm water runoff is collected in the concrete ditches that run along Litchfield Road and Northern Avenue. This runoff drains untreated into the Agua Fria River. Since people are the primary source of these pollutants, individuals can do a lot to protect local water bodies by being mindful of what should not be dumped down storm drains.

Most people are unaware that making a few changes in their daily lives will tremendously reduce the amount of pollutants they contribute to storm water runoff. Luke and the greater Phoenix metropolitan area continue to work together to promote storm water education throughout Arizona. Preventing storm water pollution is everyone’s responsibility.